PPLI Annual Report (2019) - Flipbook - Page 41
Most of the schools engaged in the Short Course were offering classes outside of the school timetable, which
is perceived by the teachers as one of the main challenges in the teaching and learning of the course. When
the short course is delivered outside of regular school hours some students do not perceive it as part of their
Junior Cycle and regular attendance can become an issue. When this occurs, teachers don’t feel supported by
parents or school leaders. SNA access has also been an issue in at least one school where classes take place
after school hours.
“Students have already attended six hours of lessons in the school. Often they are tired. Lots of
other activities are designed for after school, the students have to choose between Polish class
and these other activities. Very often the want to do sports, etc. “
Students also perceive this as the greatest challenge. :
“Staying after school for 2 hours is the most difficult and challenging for me. I have less time for
my homework when I get home.”
While the learning outcomes can be realised at different levels of ability teachers report that this poses a
challenge for them.
Impact
Overall students are very satisfied with the course and are very appreciative of the opportunity. They
recognise it as an asset both in terms of the CAO points and the opportunities that it may bring in the future
world of work and study.
"I am happy that
even when my parents
moved to Ireland and I had no
choice in that I have a
choice to continue to
learn Polish.”
"I would love
to improve my Polish
and by the time I would
turn 18 I would have
4 languages"
"We can talk
in our native
language- it feels
normal"
Next Steps
•
Continue to engage and support schools introducing Short Courses in Polish and Lithuanian.
•
Encourage schools where there is critical mass and where possible to timetable the short course in the
regular curriculum
•
Continue to offer CPD for teachers, particularly in the areas of differentiation and UDL.
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